Majesty of the Grand Canyon

A book very much about the Grand Canyon and the art it has inspired from the 1850s to the end of the twentieth century. While predominantly paintings, oils and watercolours, there are also a few photographs and some etchings and drawings. Following the Foreword and Introduction, the book is divided into eight sections which include several discussions of the artists, the effect of the railway and other excursions, and contemporary views. There are also scattered throughout the book interesting short historical quotations from various sources. However the text is fairly minimal in relation to the number or power of the illustrations. The book also provides a selected bibliography. There are about sixty artists represented by their work, some by just one painting, others by as many as many as six or more. Included in the latter group are Louis Akin, Thomas Moran and Gunnar M Winfross. The text discusses the art and artists often in comparison and always very much in association with the Grand Canyon and the reciprocal effects. It is a very attractive and due to the paintings an extremely colourful book, illustrated throughout in full colour (apart from the obvious black and white photographs). Most of the pictures are reproduced large to full page and several occupy up to two pages. The wide landscape format of the book is well suited to the many panoramic views (the book measures 9.75" x 11.5"). The quality of reproduction is excellent with the texture of paint and brushwork often clearly evident. On account of the well in excess of 100 illustrations to which the adjectives dramatic, sublime, ethereal can be freely applied, this is without doubt a most imposing book.

A beautifully illustrated overview of artistic responses to America's most famous natural wonder. Ranging from portrayals by early expeditionary artists to recent panoramas that exult in the region's chromatic and geological complexity, this book examines a diverse array of imagery in historical context, augmented by a profusion of literary, scientific, and historical quotations about the canyon and its sublime effects. First documenting the canyon's potential as a navigable waterway, then working for railroad companies interested in the area's tourist value, artists today are drawn to the region for a host of reasons, but all continue to be fascinated by its enduring spectacle. The Majesty of the Grand Canyon celebrates their achievements and explores their struggle to approach the epic grandeur. A great history AND art AND art history for both kids and adults, USA-ers and non-USA-ers esp. not likely to see in person, or if you have been so lucky, reinforces those wonderful memories!